How France has mastered professional rugby better than everyone else

Columnist Paul Williams, writing for Rugby World, argues that France has become the gold standard in professional rugby, citing strong TV deals, a competitive second tier, and high-quality on-field product. The piece contrasts France's success with other nations, noting that while the All Blacks have historically dominated the sport and South Africa have excelled at Test level over the past decade, no other country has mastered the professional game as comprehensively as France. Williams calls on other rugby nations to follow the French model.